Xi’an, the ancient capital of thirteen dynasties, is a city brimming with rich history, culture, and architectural charm. If you find yourself with a 24-hour layover here, you’re in for a treat! From visiting the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda to exploring the city’s lively old streets and indulging in delicious local food, Xi’an offers plenty to do within a short time. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best routes and must-visit spots to make the most of your layover, all while navigating the city with ease using the metro and local transportation.
Morning: Big Wild Goose Pagoda Area
Route:
- Big Wild Goose Pagoda Station (大雁塔站)
- Da Ci’en Relic Park (大慈恩遗址公园)
- South Square of Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔南广场)
- Dayuecheng Mall (大悦城) – Entrance 3 and 4th Floor for lunch
1. Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔): A must-see landmark of Xi’an, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a symbol of the city’s rich history and Buddhist heritage. Exit from Big Wild Goose Pagoda metro station, and walk around the pagoda in a counter-clockwise direction. This short, easy walk takes about an hour and gives you plenty of chances to capture great photos of the pagoda from various angles.
2. Da Ci’en Relic Park (大慈恩遗址公园): Adjacent to the pagoda is Da Ci’en Relic Park, where you can enjoy beautiful shots with the pagoda and large Buddha statues in the same frame. Be mindful of photographers who may occupy certain angles and ask for payment. Don’t hesitate to assert your right to shoot freely! Just speak up, and you’ll be able to take your photos without interference.
3. South Square of Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔南广场): The South Square provides a fantastic panoramic view of the pagoda. It’s a good place for some stunning pictures, and you’ll see tourists and locals alike enjoying the surroundings.
4. Dayuecheng Mall (大悦城): After taking your fill of photos, head to Dayuecheng Mall, just a short walk from the pagoda. Enter through Door 3, where you’ll find a nice spot for lunch. The mall also features cafes with views of the pagoda. The 4th floor has a lovely cafe, Big Wild Goose Pagoda Coffee (大雁塔咖啡), which serves not only coffee but also a quaint, peaceful atmosphere.
Food Recommendation: For a quick but satisfying meal, try some local Shaanxi dishes. The Biang Biang noodles are fresh and flavorful, and the fried Gourd Chicken (葫芦鸡) is crisp and delicious. These dishes are great choices if you’re short on time but still want to experience local flavors.
Afternoon: Explore Old Streets and Traditional Areas
Route:
- Yongning Gate Station (永宁门站)
- Shu Yuan Men (书院门)
- Xiang Zi Miao Street (湘子庙街)
- Fu De Alley (福德巷)
- Bell Tower Station (钟楼站)
1. Shu Yuan Men (书院门): Shu Yuan Men is a pedestrian street dedicated to traditional calligraphy and artwork. It’s lined with shops selling fine stationery, brushes, ink, and other Chinese art supplies. It’s a great spot to explore if you’re into Chinese culture and traditional crafts. You’ll find plenty of unique items to browse and take home as souvenirs.
2. Xiang Zi Miao Street (湘子庙街): This quaint street is full of character and offers a glimpse into local life. It’s less touristy and more authentic, with a serene atmosphere. You’ll find the ancient Xiangzi Temple (湘子庙), where you can take in the traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings. It’s a great place to stop and take a moment to relax, away from the busier tourist spots.
3. Fu De Alley (福德巷): Fu De Alley is an artsy, bohemian street filled with small cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll and a little shopping. Many of the cafes offer a cozy vibe and excellent coffee, so if you’re in the mood for afternoon tea, this is the place to be.
4. Bell Tower Station (钟楼站): Passing through Bell Tower Station, you can admire the striking contrast between the modern, busy city streets and the ancient Bell Tower. Located at the heart of the city, the Bell Tower marks the historic center of Xi’an and is a must-see landmark for any visitor. You can take a few moments here to snap some photos and appreciate the vibrant energy of the area.
Dinner: For dinner, try a local favorite — hotpot! Located near the Bell Tower, there are several small, local hotpot restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious and authentic meal. One highly recommended spot is known for its flavorful sesame sauce (麻酱) and freshly sliced meats that are cooked in a bubbling pot of hot broth. T
Evening: Return to the Airport
After dinner, take the metro back to the airport. You can easily get from the city center back to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport via Line 14, which connects the Bell Tower area to the airport in under an hour. Depending on your flight time, you may want to take a quick walk around the city’s bustling streets before returning to the airport.